Information for Families

We here at the San Diego County Medical Examiner's Office know that we fill a vital role in Law Enforcement and Public Health for the County.  However, one of our most important duties is to the families who have lost a loved one - often suddenly and unexpectedly or without warning.  On top of this sudden loss, we understand that for the vast majority of people, this would be the first time they would have to work with our Office.  Whatever the circumstances, we try to work with families to help them through the process as it pertains to our Office and answer as many questions as we can.  Our Investigators and Clerical staff are excellent in this function, and our staff Forensic Pathologists can help family members try to understand how the death occurred. 

The following pages (also listed in the top menu) provide a general outline, basic information, and valuable links from everything to obtaining copies of reports, fees, and information regarding bereavement resources. 
 
The Process
Fees
FAQs
Organ, Tissue, and Body Donation
Bereavement Center